About the Seth Thomas “Column” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Column” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Column” clock model, introduced in the late 19th century, is a notable mantel clock from the esteemed American clockmaker. This exquisite timepiece is recognized for its unique design and precision craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.
Typical case materials for the Seth Thomas “Column” clock include mahogany, walnut, and rosewood. The columnar design features a tall, slender body with an ornate base, making it an attractive addition to any mantel or shelf. The clock’s case is often adorned with intricate inlays, carved details, and burnished brass accents, contributing to its aesthetic appeal.
Produced primarily between 1870 and 1920, the Seth Thomas “Column” clock saw its heyday during the Victorian era. Its production span covers various styles popular during this period, from ornate Gothic Revival designs to more streamlined Renaissance Revival styles.
What makes the Seth Thomas “Column” clock collectible is a combination of factors. Its historical significance as a product of one of America’s most renowned clock companies, its attractive design that appeals to many collectors, and the high-quality craftsmanship that ensured its longevity are key contributors.
Notable features of the Seth Thomas “Column” clock include a weight-driven movement, a dial with Roman numerals or Arabic numerals, and a pendulum visible through a glass door at the bottom of the case. Some versions may also feature a striking mechanism for the hour and half-hour. The clock’s precision and durability have earned it a place among collectors worldwide.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Seth Thomas “Column” clock is
Auction Records and Price History
The following 9 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Column” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1860, Seth Thomas, Plymouth, Conn., “Column”, 30-hour time/strike, 2-wt mantel clock.
Condition: Mahogany veneered case is in very good condition with original finish. There are some small scrapes and minor veneer chips commensurate with the age of the clock. Someone has put a coat of varnish on the dial that has turned yellow (done long ago). Original painted tablet maybe 20% flaked. Hands are original. Movement is signed. Label inside about 1/3 worn. Generally a good original clock. Height 25.5 inches [64.77 cm]
Sold: $100 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn, COLUMN, clock, 8-day spring with strike and alarm in a rosewood case
Condition: retains original dial in great condition; orig ST hands and good label. Exterior finish is also original, however there are some nicks and scrapes and chips in veneer, top right of cornice molding, other minor losses. Movement appears to be clean and runs OK. With two Kansas City, Mo, repair labels from 1876 and 1895. For reference, see Tran Ly’s Seth Thomas book, 3rd edition, page 523-24. We sold one in 2001 for $448 total, Ly guide price currently 300. Height 16 inches [40.5cm]
Sold: $100 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Column”, 8-day time and gong strike column and cornice mantel clock.
Condition: Refinished rosewood veneered case in generally good condition with small chips on the back edge of the cornice, some lifting on the right OG molding of the base, and right side door stretcher. Original dial has been poorly repainted. Hands are original. Movement is signed. Mirror is period, but lacks the cardboard backing. Nice label inside case. Height 16 inches [40.64 cm]
Sold: $80 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Column” shelf clock, 8 days, time and strike, weight driven movement, c1870
Mahogany case with original finish in very nice condition. Some veneer loss to lower left base and upper left cornice base, Signed Lyre movement. Original hands. Dial has been restored. Tablets are original but the center one is an unusual scene for a Seth Thomas tablet, however this clock was an export to England. Nice paper label inside the case. Ht 32″.
Sold: $300 | Date: April 27, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., mini Column and Cornice clock, the COLUMN model, 8-day time and gong strike. C.1886.
the rosewood veneered case has an old or original finish, with some veneer chips on the base and cornice. The original gilt columns have some wear and minor loss to gold leaf, but are still above average. Original painted dial has flakes and losses in the chapter ring and along the edges. ST hands are original. Floral tablet appears original, with re-newed blue background. movement is signed, and retain Geneva stops. Good inside label. Height 16 inches
Sold: $115 | Date: November 6, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Column” model 8 day spring driven time and strike, shelf clock, c1875
The rosewood veneered case has been refinished and has some small veneer repairs, The dial has been repainted. The “ST” hands are original. The movement is signed. The original tablet has been restored on the back side. Overall, a very nice attractive model of this clock. Ht 16″.
Sold: $150 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Column” model 8 days, time and strike, lyre movement shelf clock, c1875.
The rosewood veneered case has added finish and some veneer repairs. The metal dial has been repainted and the “ST” hands are new. The door tablet, is old with restoration. The movement is signed. Ht 16″.
Sold: $190 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Column” model 8 days,spring driven time and strike, lyre movement, c1870.
The rosewood veneered case is nicely refinished. The painted dial is new, as are the ST hands. The movement is the large lyre movement and is signed S. Thomas, Plymouth. The repainted American eagle tablet is by Moberg.Ht 16″.
Sold: $200 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Column” model 8 days, time and strike, shelf clock, c1870.
The rosewood case retains little finish. The gilt caps on the columns are very nice. The metal dial has been repainted. The “ST” hands are new. The copy of Fenn tablet by Moberg. The movement is signed. Ht 16″.
Sold: $200 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts